Pretty sure Data's status was solidified in Measure of a Man. I was also keeping it era and crew consistent, so no cross-era or cross-crew groups. The reason being that it is in keeping with the meme above.

As for why I chose Data, Riker, and LaForge; for their technical problem solving skills. And that they work really well together solving technical problems. I don't need anyone to be majestic or fret about some project. I need them to fix the elevator. XD